Post Doctoral Fellow - Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine

About the role

The Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Medicine at West Virginia University is seeking a postdoctoral researcher to join Dr. Rong Liu’s lab. The position focuses on investigating the roles and mechanisms of molecular motor proteins in human sensory processes using cutting-edge single-molecule techniques and high-resolution microscopy.

Responsibilities

• Conducting experimental research to characterize motor proteins in a reduced reconstituted system and in live cellular environments.
• Collaborating with team members to interpret data, generate hypotheses, and design follow-up experiments.
• Summarizing research findings and drafting manuscripts for publication.
• Presenting research findings at conferences and seminars.
• Mentoring students and junior trainees.

Requirements

• A PhD in life sciences or a related field.
• A minimum of one (1) first-author peer-reviewed academic paper(s).
• Research experience in working with purified proteins and modern fluorescent microscopy is highly desirable.

Qualifications

• All qualifications must be met by the time of employment.
• The successful candidate may be permitted to begin employment prior to degree confirmation with a letter certifying the trainee has completed all the requirements from their university.

Skills and Abilities

• A strong background in molecular biology, protein biochemistry, iPSCs, or cellular mechanisms in vision and hearing processes.
• Experiences with microscopy and high-throughput image quantification and data analysis.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research environment.
• Excellent communication skills and a track record of scientific productivity (publications, conference presentations).

Benefits

• A 37.5-hour work week.
• 13 paid holidays (staff holiday calendar).
• 24 annual leave (vacation) days per year (employee leave).
• 18 sick days per year (for when you’re ill, for when you need time to care for sick family, for your own, or your family’s, regularly scheduled medical appointments. Who is family for the purpose of this leave? A lot of people in your life including immediate relatives and in-laws as well as others considered to be members of your household living under the same roof).
• WVU offers a range of health insurance and other benefits.
• 401(a) retirement savings with 6% employee contribution match, eligibility to continue health insurance, and other retiree perks.

About WVU

West Virginia University is a place of purpose and community. We take pride in our profound impact on the state of West Virginia and are committed to the personal and professional growth of our employees. From the groundbreaking R1 research at our flagship campus in Morgantown to the career-oriented programs at WVU Potomac State in Keyser, and the technology-intensive programs at WVU Tech in Beckley, the contributions of WVU employees resonate across the state, touching lives and shaping futures. At WVU, you will discover a supportive community that champions work-life balance and fosters a collaborative atmosphere. Our core values — service, curiosity, respect, accountability and appreciation — unite us as Mountaineers. Join us at West Virginia University, where your work will make a lasting impact.

Contact Information

To learn more about WVU, visit wvu.edu. West Virginia University is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We invite all qualified applicants regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetic information, or Veteran status.